HomeMy Public PortalAboutBy-Law Enforcement Officer-Fire Inspector_Job Description_Community Development & Recreation_2022-03-31 Municipality of the District of
Chester
Position Description
Position Title: By-Law Enforcement Officer / Fire Inspector
Salary Band: Middle Manager/Coordinator
Reports to: Director of Community Development & Recreation
Status: Permanent Full Time (One year – April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023)
Location: Municipal Complex (186 Central Street and 151 King Street), subject to
change
Hours: 35 hours per week. Monday to Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm. Some evening and
weekends required.
Updated: March 2022
SCOPE
This position is responsible for the enforcement of Municipal By-laws, policies, and applicable
provisions of the Municipal Government Act. The incumbent is responsible for coordinating with other
departments and ensure enforcement and compliance with Municipal By-laws. This includes responding
to citizen complaints, appropriate investigation, and working with citizens to remedy any infractions or
non-compliance. Other responsibilities include administrative duties and working with the Dangerous
and Unsightly Committee.
This position is also responsible for the administering the Municipal Fire Inspection program, including
the enforcement of the Nova Scotia Fire Safety Regulations, as well as applicable provincial regulations,
Municipal bylaws, and certain provincial statutes.
OBLIGATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES UNDER LEGISLATION
1) The Municipality of the District of Chester is committed to workplace safety and all employees are
expected to actively participate in the Municipality’s Occupational Health and Safety Policy and
Program and Occupational Health and Safety Legislation as well as Regulations of the Province of
Nova Scotia.
2) The Municipality of the District of Chester complies with the Employment Legislation of Nova Scotia
and all employees are also expected to act in accordance to the appropriate Legislation as well.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
1) High School Diploma.
2) Minimum Level 1 certification as a Nova Scotia Fire Inspector through FIANS.
3) Experience, courses, or certification in the field of law enforcement or associated field considered an
asset.
4) Experience in fire inspection and municipal by-law enforcement an asset.
Skills/Knowledge/Competencies
1) Ability to read and interpret municipal by-laws and policy and provincial legislation when
appropriate.
2) Working knowledge of the Nova Scotia Fire Safety Act.
3) Ability to write concise and complete reports.
4) Ability to work with limited supervision, high level of sound and independent judgment, reasoning,
and discretion.
5) Ability to coordinate case file management.
6) Outstanding interpersonal skills including
a) Exceptional communication skills (written and oral).
b) Ability to work effectively with a variety of people.
c) Ability to effectively deal with conflict and difficult situations.
7) Strong analytical and decision-making skills, including ability to make decisions relative to urgency
and importance.
8) Proficient in use of computers, including MS Office/Office 365, and comfortable learning new
computer software programs such as permit tracking, electronic records management software.
Other Requirements
1) Possess a valid Class 5 Nova Scotia Driver’s License with no restrictions.
2) Must be eligible to obtain a Special Constable Appointment.
3) WHMIS, Emergency First Aid, and other safety related training as required by Provincial Regulation
or Municipal Policy.
SUMMARY OF FUNCTION
1) Deliver Orders and Summary Offence Tickets when required.
2) Maintain thorough and accurate records of all enforcement activities. Prepare and submit
reports on timely basis. Stand prepared to offer testimony and documentation in court as
required.
3) Coordinate the enforcement and administration of By-law complaints with other departments,
including:
a) Educate and provide information to the public regarding Municipal By-Laws and enforce
Municipal By-Laws and policies in order to ensure a safe environment for community
members. By-laws include, but are not limited to, Noise By-law, Outdoor Fire By-law, Solid
Waste Collection By-law, Wharves, Slipways and Berthage Policy, Land Use By-law and
Dangerous and Unsightly Policy.
b) Conduct site assessments regarding alleged By-Law violations and Municipal Government
Act (MGA) violations.
c) Discuss by-law requirements with involved parties and attempt to reach an understanding
and obtain voluntary compliance.
d) Document appropriate case file information while conducting site assessment and
maintain detailed records.
e) Investigate By-Law offences to prepare for court proceedings and other dispositions of the
matters.
f) Lay charges before the courts (long form information), issue Summary Offence Tickets
(SOT) or Municipal By-Law Tickets to individuals who violate Municipal By-Laws.
4) Primary responsibility for administering the Municipal Unsightly and Dangerous Premises
Policy pursuant to the Municipal Government Act and all relevant policies.
5) Responsible for administering and enforcing the Nova Scotia Fire Safety Act and the National
Fire Code, including:
a) Conducting Fire Inspections, completing all related documentation and reporting.
b) Complete inspection checklist based on the relevant by-laws, policies and procedures.
c) Assist Provincial Fire Marshal’s Office on Fire Inspections.
6) Maintain an accurate record of inspections.
7) Provide reports, affidavits, and other related documentation for legal proceedings.
8) Serve as a resource to the general public.
9) Prepare and present statistical reports, requests for direction/decision, and annual reports.
10) Provide advice and assistance to general public, Municipal Council, other departments, and
senior administration.
11) Respond to customer complaints and/or queries; provide high quality customer service.
12) Review established policies and procedures and make recommendations for changes and
improvements, as necessary.
13) Work with the Animal Control Officer, and provide advice, guidance, and assistance as
necessary, including providing support for the Fences and Arbitration Committee.
14) Coordinate the kennel inspection program.
Accountabilities
1) Maintain a basic knowledge of relevant Municipal By-laws and policies.
2) Use personal protective clothing and equipment, follow the Occupational Health and Safety
Act as well as MOC safety program.
3) Daily use of a computer to input inspection data and to communicate with other staff and
external clients, develop correspondence and reports.
4) Maintain clear and accurate digital and paper records.
CONTACTS
1) Members of Council and Staff
2) General Public
3) Provincial Fire Marshal’s Office
4) Municipal Solicitor
5) Dangerous and Unsightly Premises Committee
6) RCMP